A Haunting Affair - the Halloween Wedding

Saying “I Do” on All Hallows Eve? Graveyards, skulls, and pumpkins aren't typically linked with a wedding, but we definitely think it is possible to pull off a ghastly-meets-glamorous affair and this Halloween-themed bash is sure to have your guests reminiscing for years. Below are some of our favorite ghoulish and ghostly ideas on how to keep it hauntingly entertaining, yet bewitchingly elegant.

A Haunting Venue

The US has its fair share of haunting venues where couples can stir up some magic. Choose from a hotel from the classic movie, The Shining, or head north to Salem, MA to spend some time with your favorite witches. Check out some of our favorites glamorous yet rumored-to-be-haunted spaces.

Located in the former witch-hunting capital of the colonies, there are bound to be some supernatural occurrences on the property. Bridget Bishop, the first to be executed at the witch trials, is said to haunt the grounds. Request Room 325 where you may feel phantom hands tucking you into bed. Ghost stories aside, with sweeping views of historic Salem, the Grand Ballroom has been on the top of New England’s wedding favorites since the hotel opened its doors. The hotel offers a number of packages for up to 200 guests.

While staying in room 217, Stephen King was inspired to write The Shining, which was made into a movie, set at the exact hotel. Rumor has it that the ghost of the hotel’s original owner, F.O. Stanley, haunts the grounds – spending time tickling the ivories in the Music Room while his wife, Flora can be spotted in the Billiard Room and Lobby. Looking for more? Request room 408, where past guests have claimed to hear children outside their door though none are around. The MacGregor Ballroom, with its dark wooded décor and mountaintop views, is perfect for a Halloween wedding for up to 200 guests. Want a more intimate setting? The Music Room boasts French doors and beautiful Palladian windows – Flora may even stop by to witness.

This historic city is known for its black magic and famous hauntings. Hotel Provincial stands where several former Civil War hospitals resided. This may be why guests report feeling the eyes of fallen soldiers on them or watching fleeting blood stains appear and disappear. Specializing in small weddings with room for up to 20 guests, the flair of the French Quarter transforms the courtyard into a perfect setting for an intimate affair.

Ranked as one of Time Magazine’s Top 10 Most Haunted Places in the World, this 18th century Southern plantation is said to be haunted by Chloe, a vengeful slave who murdered the daughters of the plantation’s owner. The property offers both ceremony and reception venues – couples can choose from the Enchanted Courtyard or have a tent-style wedding on the grounds. There is also a restaurant on site that is capable of wedding catering.

Not all brides have to wear white. Play with the dark side – whether that means rocking a black dress, getting your hands on some dark flowers or taking advantage of some pumpkins. Get creative with your man – let his colors fly. And don’t forget about your wedding party – they’ll be all for a fun theme.

It is completely possible to embrace this holiday without veering into the tacky theme party side. Whether you choose to include spooky treats into your décor, keep it classic with orange and black or go gourd-wild, the decision is all yours.

We’ve been known to sneak a bar or two from the Halloween bucket a little early. Share the wealth and offer up a candy bar to your guests. Or take advantage of the season and pass around candy apples. Is a signature beverage more your treat… or trick? There are countless ways to incorporate liquid libations into the theme. Here are some of our favorite tasty tricks and treats.

Our Favorite Frightful Couples

From a newly engaged couple experiencing the Annual Transylvanian Convention to a nerdy florist shop assistant who falls in love with his co-worker, from a gentle spirit with sharp hands who falls in love with the teenage daughter of the family that takes him in to the passionate love of our favorite creepy family. No matter the genre – scary, family, romance, comedy - movies have brought us some of our favorite spooktacular couples. Whether they are running for their lives, already dead or have a hit list of their own, we have fallen in love with these star-crossed lovers.

Hope you enjoy some of our favorite tricks and treats for a Halloween wedding. Whether you are saying "I Do" on All Hallows Eve or invited as a guest to the haunting affair, we hope you have a spooktacular time!